SELECTED TESTIMONIALS:

March 24, 2013

"Enter The Pain Cave and build your speed, endurance and power on the bike! Join Coach Troy and athletes from the Life Time Fitness Cycling Club for this high intensity workout that targets your key energy systems. Starting off with some aerobic work involving pedaling technique drills, you'll gradually build intensity through the workout with threshold work and finish up with leg burning sprints for maximum power development! Incorporate this workout in to your weekly training program to develop that 'top end' necessary for high performance fitness at any level!" Read more of this review here.

-- Dr. Joseph A. Sheppard, The Happy Athlete

October 13, 2012

"I've been doing triathlons for over 20 years now. Since the mid 90's, I've been a pretty competitive age grouper, placing in most sprint and Olympic distance triathlons. Moving to longer distance races, I was able to do well in smaller triathlons; however, I just wasn't competitive at larger venues. I did three ironman races in 2008 and 2009, finishing in the 12 and a half to 13 hour range. My swim and bike were decent, but I wasn't able to hold it together for a good run. Going back to short course racing for 2010 and 2011 was great as I was in my mid forties and placing in the top three overall in many races. The itch for long course racing returned so I decided to let an expert help me out for 2012.

I chose Troy because I felt he "walked the walk". After being a Pro in his 20's, he returned to ironman racing as a Masters athlete and did extremely well! I read an article where he spoke about the differences in training as a 20 year old versus 40+ year old. His training plans pushed me hard without incurring injuries. Sometimes I would think I couldn't do some of the really hard workouts, like tempo work 10 miles into a 15 mile run, but I did them. 2012 was my best season of racing ever! I PR'd every race that I did, some by as much as 40 minutes! I consider the biggest accomplishments to be placing 3rd in my age group at Eagleman 70.3 (time - 5:10) and at IM 70.3 Pocono Mountains (time - 5:14). At Pocono, I had the fastest run split in my age group (F45-49) (7:50 pace)! My final race of the season was the Harrisburg marathon where I finished in 3:26 (7:52 pace) and got 3rd place in my age group! That time beat the Boston Qualifying time for an 18 year old female. It's almost surreal! All I can say is THANK YOU, THANK YOU, and THANK YOU COACH TROY! Looking forward to 2013!"

-- Ginny A., Pennsylvania

October 12, 2012

"As a busy physician, and a leader of an international society my training needs to be focused and results oriented. As part of the IMXC program, I attended Coach Troy Jacobson's Tucson training camp in March. His staff of coaches were highly qualified and first rate. The accommodations were comfortable and convenient and the high desert training venue was scenic and challenging! I left the camp feeling energized and motivated to take my training and racing to the next level, hiring Troy as my personal coach. I recommend his professional coaching services and camps to anyone who values quality and wants to succeed in this demanding sport. Troy has not only changed by fitness, but my outlook on my success as an IM athlete."

-- Tim D., President and CEO

October 12, 2012

"As a combined birthday and wedding gift, my wife bought me a 6-month personal coaching package with Coach Troy Jacobson. I was open to having a coach develop my training plan as my work schedule is very demanding with frequent business travel. The coaching process was seamless and easy to follow as Troy loaded my updated and personalized plan to my Training Peaks calendar, while following up with a weekly phone consultation to go over results and training objectives. The program was successful in that it held me accountable, was comprehensive with training and nutrition advice and developed my fitness as required, enabling me to have a peak IM 70.3 experience.... while losing 15 lbs. in the process! Given that I've been 'self-coached' for many years prior to working with Troy, I was very pleased with what I was able to accomplish with coaching from a professional. Coach Troy still works with me to this day, and I look forward to more success in the future."

-- Leo D., Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

October 12, 2012

"I returned to triathlon after a multi-year layoff and needed guidance. As a frequent business traveler with a demanding job, time is of the essence and quality of training rules over quantity. I connected with Coach Troy Jacobson through the IMXC program, leveraging his one on one coaching services and attended his IM Lake Placid camp. The training plan he mapped out for me suited my schedule and challenged me. At times, I had doubts about my fitness, but was reassured I was on the right track at this stage in my development as a Masters triathlete. Suffice it to say, my race results at IMLP exceeded my expectations! I felt great and had a memorable Ironman experience! Troy's strategic approach to race scheduling and training are very effective and I'm looking forward to taking my performance to the next level under his guidance for 2013. I recommend his coaching to busy athletes requiring a personalized approach to training and race preparation."

-- Joe E., EVP, COO Global Sales and Customer Operations

September 11, 2012

"About 2 years ago, I was ready to pack in the sport of triathlon. I knew that to improve I had to be riding all year round but that meant spinning indoors. I dreaded the thought of spinning because it was so boring. One hour on a bike trainer seemed like an eternity. A friend of mine urged me to borrow a DVD program he owned called Spinervals. I reluctantly accepted his offer but decided to give it a shot. After finishing the DVD workout called "Bending Crank arms" I was hooked. My whole attitude and outlook about biking, spinning and triathlon changed. The Spinervals DVD series produced by Coach Troy are challenging, fun and diverse. They are suitable for beginners' right through to advanced athletes. I have completed the Tough Love (3hour workout) several times and have even completed the virtual Kona Hawaii 5 and a half training ride as well!

I became so inspired that I decided to enter Ironman Canada in 2012. After consulting with coach Troy he referred me to his associate coach Colleen Kelley. I worked with Colleen for the past year with the goal of having a great Ironman race. Through a lot of hard work, smart training and excellent coaching I completed Ironman Canada a full 45 minutes faster than my last race in 2008. And I am not done yet. I am inspired to do more Ironman distance races in the very near future. The Spinervals DVD's and coaching offered by Coach Troy are for athletes of all ability levels. Thank you so much Coach Troy and Coach Colleen. Keep up the great work!"

Sincerely,
-- Larry S., BC, Canada

September 5, 2012

"I wanted to let you and Coach Troy know that I qualified for the IM Kona World Championships at the UK Ironman in July. I think of Coach Troy as my cycling coach...It's because of the great workouts and other advice he gives that got me to Kona. My time wasn't that great...but better than the competition. The bike course was really tough (very tough hills and technical). I could just hear Troy saying, "don't burn your matches on these hills....save it for the run." So thanks!!!! I really appreciate Troy and Spinervals!!"

Hope to see you in Kona,
-- Laurel W.

August 12, 2012

"Thought you might like to hear about my experience at the Gran Fondo NY this May. I own my own business and am at work by 7 am. If I get home by 7 it's an early night for me so getting out and training with my buds is out of the question during the weekdays. My entire program was based indoors on a trainer using 5 Spinerval cd's. The first thing I did was get tested at a New Leaf training center. At 62 years old I was measured to have a VOmax of 57ml/kg/min. Apparently that's a decent number. My training consisted of 5 Spinerval cd's and weekend rides with my club Suffolk Bikeriders Association (SBRA). I've been involved in the sport since the mid 70's and used to race.

28.0 Aero Base
17.0 Aero Base
32.0 Extreme Threshold
29.0 Dropping the Hammer
24.0 Hillacious

I rode in the 60 to 64 age group turning 63 a few days after the ride. I'm pleased to say out of nearly 600 riders in my group I placed 11th. The icing on the cake was that I did it on my 16 year old STEEL DeRosa (Campy equipped of course).

Well just wanted to thank the good folks at Spinervals and say couldn't have done it without you."

Regards,
-- G.R.

October 25, 2011

"Hi Troy,
I did a 3 hr ride on the IDT at 4 am this morning and while I was riding I thought I have to drop you a mail and just let you know what you have done for me!!

My name is Jodi, I live in Johannesburg, South Africa. I began running 7 years ago and my life changed. I went from zero to hero really fast, obviously too fast as you will see but I discovered that I was a pretty decent " club" runner. I ran my first 10 km race in 41 min, 3 months later my first half marathon in 84 min followed by 3 marathons, 3:06, 3:05 and then 3:02! I then was convinced to do the Comrades marathon (89km) which I did in 7 hrs.

That was the end of my "running career"

I broke my hip and was told that I was never gonna run again. No weight bearing. No walking for 8 months...... But I could ride the spinning bike!! This all happened from Aug 2005 - July 2006.

This is where YOU come in!!

I was soooo depressed, I'm sure you can imagine. I got on the bike but was bored out of my mind and I found the riding absolutely pointless and hated it..... Until I was given a gift. A good friend of mine bought me a few of your dvd's and that changed everything. I absolutely LOVED doing your training videos that I went on line and have bought every single one of your dvd's. I don't think any one person has more of them than I do!

You changed my life.

Anyway, after many many hrs and years having you tell me that " anyone can suffer for 30 s" I am now an addicted triathlete!! I did my first Olympic distance in November last year, 70.3 in Jan and my first full Iron Man (Port Elizabeth) in April this year. I am loving every minute of it and I am running...... Pain free!! (not a 3 hr marathon but I'm running)

So I just wanted to let you know that you will never imagine the impact you have had in my life, I could never thank you enough!

I wake up every morning excited for what Coach Troy has in stall for me.

Thanks again."

Regards,
-- Jodi from SA

September 8, 2010

"Dear Troy,
I am just dropping you a line to say that I am hooked on your Spinervals tapes.

I am 63 and have been using Spinervals tapes after we went on a swimming course at the University of Central Florida and our coach introduced me to your CD's. At 60 I completed an IronMan competition (just!) and was in reasonabel condition.

However last year I had to have a major operation to take out a chunk of colon (simply an XS of colon due to bad genetics) and that operation lead to all sorts of complications that left me in hospital for close to 3 months. 2 major operations and a couple of minor ones, a week of being very close to not living and pretty well total loss of all muscle that I had worked hard to develop.

Once home, in December, I started at 10 mins with a Spinervals tape and that was enough. Troy talked about a cadence of 100. I was at sub 60. 6 days a week I have worked up using the Spinervals tapes and this month I have done Lands End (SW tip of the UK) to John O'Groats (NE tip of Scotland) by bike - roughly 950 miles - in just under 2 weeks.

Spinervals tapes may turn you into a fit hamster but they have been a great discipline and a very controlled way to get back to full and semi-youthful health."

Thanks and the very best,
-- I.S.

"P.S. How come in my Spinnerval tapes Troy Jacobson never seems to get any older?"

July 26, 2010

"Hi Troy,
I stayed on the bike yesterday and remembered to spin while climbing. (No mashing the big gears.) I also stuck with the nutrition plan we discussed. The results? I was able to hold my time on the run for 20 miles before fatigue began to creep in. I PR ed yesterday besting my '06 time by over 8 minutes and my '08 time by a whopping hour and forty minutes! The camp and your advice were instrumental in my success."

I can't thank you enough,
-- Michael B., Baltimore, MD

June 26, 2010

"Hello Coach Troy,
It can be said that "our life" as we know it is very much a product of the decisions we make. How we handle decisions, both "big decisions" and seemingly insignificant ones, collectively form our lives. Our lives clearly have a significant impact on those around us (spouses, kids, coworkers etc.). Therefore our personal decisions, good and bad, have a spillover effect -- an impact is felt by each person and situation that we are involved with. Reaching this conclusion took me some time (35 years) but I am very glad to now realize this. Read on to hear how you, through Spinervals, have helped me reach that point.

Most of the time the significance of the "big decisions" is not appreciated until much later. Also, many times the decisions at the "forks in the road of life" are misidentified as small or insignificant and are not seen for what they were until much later when results unfold and we are compelled to think back to the concept of how did I get to this point?

There are times though where a big decision is recognized clearly when it is presented. First, a little background to provide some you some context: I am 37 years old, am happily married and have 4 children ages two,four,six and eight. My wife and I both work full time, I am a field sales rep for a medical device company promoting the ACCU-CHEK® line of blood glucose meters. My wife is a pediatrician. We found ourselves very busy and felt saddled with personal and professional responsibilities. We were left feeling overwhelmed, mentally fragmented, and just tired on a daily basis. The high point of our day came after we put all the kids to bed. We would then watch a couple of hours of tv and indulge in multiple servings of ice cream and/or unhealthy snacks on a nightly basis. After a couple years of this pattern I felt a sudden and clear realization that this type of enjoyable "escapist" activity of sitting, watching tv and overeating junk food was in no way therapeutic. Instead this was further reducing the quality of our life, relationships and health. My wife and I made a conscious decision that night that this behavior needed to stop -- and be replaced with healthful decisions and a return to regular physical activity (We had both been active and regular runners in the past but had gotten away from running as life's demands increased.)

Through an internet search, with search terms long forgotten, I found out about your cycling DVD series. I ordered some of your DVDs. Your DVDs formed the foundation of my weekly exercise schedule. They were not difficult at all to implement into daily routines and work around our lives unpredictable schedules. Since starting regular exercise activity over 2 years ago and my life has been profoundly better. "Spinervals" helped me to make a confidently and happily choose a healthy path in my life. I feel that my quality of life, relationships with others and my ability to handle challenges have all been positively influenced by the active lifestyle that, I am happy to say, has become a part of me. Since all this started I have also completed, with age group placing in a good number of triathlon, running events from 5k to 25k, Nordic ski and mountain bike race. I have also registered for the full Detroit Marathon in October. I want to thank you for the role that you played in my growing to a better athlete, but more importantly a better father and husband. As people we seldom know the impact that we have on others. I felt compelled to let you know how you have helped me. And you may have though the main benefit of your series was to increase endurance, lactate threshold, and help with pushing a bigger gear!

One interesting thing about me is that I have type 1 diabetes. I have had it for 28 years now and through education and effort have very effectively managed my diabetes. Knowing the number of chronic health conditions that exist today, and the fact that the existence of such a condition often prevents people from becoming all that they can become in their lives.

Again, thank you for all you do for people and their families."

In Appreciation,
-- Tom G.

April 29, 2010

"Dear Coach Troy --
I just completed my first ½ Ironman last weekend at the Texas Ironman 70.3, and given I live in Canada with my bike training between October and April, all my riding preparation was done in-doors on the Computrainer using about 15 of your Spinervals videos.

In November you recommended to me a diverse set of your videos which I subsequently purchased and assembled a 7 month program as a result. I also employed several of your Runervals videos into my weekly training schedule.

The Texas Ironman 70.3 was my first time outdoors on the bike, other than some pre-race warm-ups earlier in the week in Galveston, and I was able to finish 66 out of 237 competitors in my age group and 370th overall out of 1326 competitors. A true testament to the quality of your DVD training line-up."

So many thanks,
-- Graham S., Alberta, Canada

April 7, 2010

"Hi Coach Troy and everyone else --
I wanted to let you know of my personal success story with your Spinervals videos. I trained throughout the winter with Spinervals and did my first long outdoor ride today, since the weather is nice for now. I did 70 miles, including up Mt. Wachusett, and I felt great. A hilly course, too, probably 6,000 feet of climbing. Couldn't get to the summit of Mt. Wachusett because there are a couple of snow fields still on the road, but I had plenty in the tank. Based on today's ride, I am stronger than I was at the end of last season.

I attribute it to repeated use of Big Gear Strength, Spinervals 11.0. I also used Uphill Grind 7.0, Mental Toughness 5.0, and Hillacious 24.0 a lot. Great job Coach, and everyone else too! Thank you for a great product."

Thanks again,
-- Jim S.

November 27, 2009

"Hello,
I love your cycling videos and use them for ALL of my bike training! I'm in the military and have VERY, VERY limited triathlon training time. I find the greatest bang-for-buck bike training is done indoors. YOUR VIDEOS GIVE ME STRUCTURE!!

As you can see, my training is limited, and pretty random :)

Average training hours per week this year: ~6
Longest training week this year:~12hrs
Number of outdoor rides this year (not including races):3

Key results:
Longhorn 70.3: 4:47 (bike split; 2:34)
Ironman AZ: 10:30 (bike split; 5:22)

I LOVE this sport and one day I will be able to devote more time to it. For now, I give it what I can. Thank you for developing a product that allows me to enjoy my passion."

Thanks again,
-- J.M., Triathlete

November 25, 2009

"On 8.2.09 I experienced a severe accident that left me with 6 broken ribs, 4 crushed vertebra, broken bones in both shoulders and hips, a crushed and collapsed lung.the admission to a 17,000.00 helicopter ride, 8 days in ICU, 4 days in step down a lovely upper body cast, that I still have to wear. Shortly after returning home my sons were kind enough to put my trainer together and I have been doing the Spinervals DVD's and tapes, I still have a few of the tapes. Needless to say my ability to actually do any of the "workouts" has been limited. I can say that your tapes and the training program has been a real inspiration as I work my way back up to a decent riding level.

Prior to my accident and for this season I had put over 7800 road miles on my bike and was looking forward to doing some double centuries and a quad century ride. After this I was just going to settle in and do some riding as I waited out spring. Needless to say my accident changed my plans in a major way. What didn't change was the inspiration and motivation I have always gotten from your program. The Spinervals series has been a real benefit to my recovery.

I have started rehab and the PT and the PTA's have all commented on how well I'm doing. I explain to them it's because of the Spinervals program. Even if I can't do a complete program giving it 110%, I can do the program at my now 100% level.

Just wanted to thank you for the great training program. I plan on qualifying for the RAAM this summer. I know I'll make the cut, being almost 60 years old gives me an advantage. Your tapes/training programs will certainly help me get there.

Oh, I never indicated the reason for my accident: cars and bikes don't share the same space very well. The car is well, my bike not so much."

Thanks and regards,
-- B.M., Cyclist, Michigan

November 21, 2009

"To The Lifesports Team,
After a nasty bicycle accident last August, I've been stuck training indoors while some fractures with delayed unions heal. I was having a great riding season up until my crash and it just killed me to see everyone else go on with the fall riding season while I was "benched". With my arm in a sling, I quickly jumped on the indoor trainer and popped in some Spinerval DVD's. The thought of everyone riding outdoors fueled me to at least maintain my fitness while healing.

I just received the Virtual Reality Spinerval series and finished the Mt. Lemmon climb. I am sitting here soaked in sweat as I email to tell you I LOVE the virtual reality format. I felt like I was riding outdoors and probably getting a better workout than my riding buddies who are outside right now. The car cam is so smooth and I just worked on "staying on your wheel."

I think I will return to the outdoor bike in BETTER SHAPE than before!! I have 8 of your DVD's and carefully listen and follow the training tips. My training is more efficient and focused than before as a result. My husband has been warning the guys to look out because I am going to be an animal when I return. I told him not to give away my secret.

Anyway, I'm sure you know your programs are great!! I just had to thank you for helping me stay motivated and pumped up during my post-accident recovery."

THANK YOU!!!
-- Tina

October 13, 2009

"Hi Troy,
First off I must commend you in your excellent DVDs that grace my selves in the so called garage now a complete Indoor Training center for approximately 18- 20 of us athletes.

I emailed you last year with regards to posting your written workouts on a bulletin board and clearly mentioning your name and company along with your approval.

I have the complete 29 Competition Spinervals, three of the four Virtual Outdoor rides, the fitness DVDs and yes even some of Chris Carmichaels' DVDs. The gang clearly enjoys yours over Carmichaels and easily rates your workout the toughest of any they have ever done. This is now our second season of having you in the AC Lab every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturdays. Once again I do not charge any one in attending as it is my way of giving back to others who are not as fortunate as I have been. Your DVDs helped me in getting to and qualifying for the big show in Kona last year (2008). There I placed 34th O/A in my age group of 45-49 M year olds in a time of 10:26:05 hrs. The organisers stated it was the third toughest race conditions in the 30 year history with winds of 30-40 mph on the bike course and temps of 108 degrees at the energy lab. I spent loads of workouts with you indoors with the heat cranked to 90 degrees and would combine 2 DVDs such as the 2 hours compilation and then followed up with Tough Love. I even melted a couple of tires off while doing these workouts.

The last 3 DVDs 27, 28 and 29 were purchased directly through your company as you had a ten dollar saving. Instead of the bike stores getting my , I felt it best that most if not all goes back to you. Could you kindly let me know when the next 3 DVDs are available as we need some new blood in the lab and your new releases would be a welcome sight to us who train indoors in the north - Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.

As well, I will be having some shots of us on our bike and trainers watching and working to your workouts on the 42 inch LCD that your DVDs are played on for us to enjoy. Along with a water station, computers, power cranks, a couple of compu-trainers, DVD surround sound players, vinyl flooring, fans, the gang loves your workouts. One girl has lost over 120 lbs and still has some room to go. I will send off some testimonials for you along with some awesome photos if you are interested.

Once again, thanks for putting in some great DVDs so we can get in awesome workouts. I look forward to getting those in the lab asap."

-- G.E.
Vancouver, BC

September 1, 2009

"I have about a dozen of the Spinerval DVD's. I love them. I live near Colorado and workout with the DVD's several times a week from October through April. As an age group triathlete these DVD's are motivating and from my 2008 to 2009 season helped me increase my average cycling speed by 3+ mph. Thank you so much."

-- Terry J.
Triathlete

August 17, 2009

"I just wanted to say thank you for your Spinervals workouts. They have been a big help in the improvement of my fitness, strength and skills. I rode in the Pigman Triathlon this weekend on a relay team, a return performance of our team from last year, in a major rain and windstorm. After that, I know that your work has also helped my toughness. Thank you very much. Please keep up the great work."

-- Jim B., Triathlete
Lincoln, Nebraska

August 6, 2009

"Thanks, Marilyn!
Please also pass on to Coach Troy that I thought the camp was incredible. As this will be my first Ironman, I appreciated the opportunity to discuss questions about the event, nutrition/hydration, pacing, etc. The training was great and the experience of riding the full bike course will provide a significant mental boost on race day. It was also a privilege to be able to complete a live Spinervals type workout! In addition, the staff from the Training Studio and the bike shop (Bluegrass Bicycle?) were outstanding. I appreciated everyone's efforts to make the weekend a challenging, enjoyable, and beneficial experience for the campers. I look forward to participating in future camps."

Thanks again,
Steve G., Triathlete

July 30, 2009

"Hey Coach Troy!
Just wanted to send a BIG 'thank you' to you. I did your training camp in Lake Placid this June having signed up for the IM in July-I was REALLY nervous about it. The camp was fantastic and to my total delight I finished my first IM on Sunday-(YAY!!) Your camp was crucial to my finish.. knowing the course and keeping all of your advice in mind got me over the finish line (not sure if you remember but basically over and over again you reminded me to spin on the bike.. so my legs were a-ok for the run). It was my first ever triathlon and it was AWESOME. I finished in the nick of time.. 16:36 :) I saw a bunch of the other campers from June who all cheered me on as I completed the course.

I can't wait to do it again and train like crazy.. thanks so much!"

-- Robin L., Triathlete

January 6, 2009

"Dear Coach Troy,
Spinervals training

I have been doing your training tapes for over 10 years now. The first tape was the Cyclearobics when you had long hair and looked younger like I did too. We trained with Wendy WingnutIngram (?) in the tape. I am writing to you to say thank you for many reasons. Firstly for giving me a chance to maintain a high level of fitness. I was a Second Dan Black belt karate instructor, runner, cyclist and swimmer. After having pelvic floor surgery I have had to give it all away for good 2 years ago except my swimming. Under guidance of my physio I am able to do your advanced Spinervals classes as I am sitting down while cycling. My fitness has never been better thank you so much. I ride with your classes everyday before work and don't feel cheated out of my fitness anymore as your workouts have enabled me to maintain my high level of fitness. I have to watch my previous running colleagues run past me while I have to walk and it doesn't upset me anymore as I am satisfied with my exercise routine under your instruction. Secondly my husband has lost 23 kgs joining me in my Spinervals training and is so much happier. Thanks for the positive impact you have had on both my husbands and my life."

Kind regards,
Jane O., Australia

September 8, 2008

"Dear Coach,
I finished my first Ironman in Louisville and had an amazing experience. I live in Orlando, Florida and don't have access to hills so I used your hill focused Spinervals. The hills were much easier than I anticipated. I kept hearing your voice in my head about momentum and cresting. I also listened to your CD's about nutrition and what to expect during an ironman and applied the information. It was incredibly helpful.

Thank you for everything you do. If it wasn't for you, I don't know that I would have had such an amazing experience at my first Ironman. Thanks!!!!"

-- Kelly S., Ironman Finisher!